Independent review recognises strong progress at Lancashire County Council
The County Council has received positive feedback from an independent review by the Local Government Association (LGA), which recognises the strong progress the council has made over the past 12 to 18 months.
The LGA’s Corporate Peer Challenge highlights strong political and managerial leadership, improving financial management, a positive organisational culture and a clear commitment to working in partnership across Lancashire.
Staff who met with peers showed a strong sense of pride in working for the council, with peers noting their passion, resilience and commitment.
The findings of the review, alongside a detailed action plan setting out how the council will respond to the recommendations, will be considered by Cabinet next week (Tuesday 19 May).
The peer team also identified areas where continued focus is needed, including strengthening engagement with local communities, making better use of data and performance information to support decision‑making, maintaining a strong grip on finances and continuing improvement in adult social care.
The council has developed a comprehensive action plan to build on progress already made and support further improvement.
County Councillor Stephen Atkinson, Leader of Lancashire County Council, said: “This independent review provides confidence in the direction the council is taking and recognises the progress made during a period of significant change. It’s right that we are open about both our strengths and the areas where we need to go further. Cabinet will now consider the focused action plan that supports the council’s ambitions for a better Lancashire and aligns with our Moving the Dial delivery plan for the year ahead.”
Mark Wynn, Chief Executive of Lancashire County Council, said: “This was a positive and constructive review that recognises the hard work, commitment and resilience of our staff and partners. We are pleased with the progress highlighted and equally clear about what we need to do next. The action plan ensures we continue improving at pace, while maintaining transparency and accountability, for the benefit of Lancashire’s residents.”
The Corporate Peer Challenge is the LGA’s flagship improvement and assurance offer, supporting councils in meeting their Best Value duty. It is not an inspection, but a peer‑led process designed to provide constructive challenge, external perspective and support for improvement.
Notes to editors
Lancashire County Council’s Corporate Peer Challenge took place between 17 and 20 March 2026 and was carried out by a team of experienced councillors and senior local government officers from across the sector. The review considered financial sustainability, performance and outcomes, governance and culture, and the council’s capacity for improvement, with additional focus on place‑based leadership, civic pride and preparation for local government reorganisation.
The full LGA report and the council’s action plan are public documents and are available on the council’s website:
👉 https://council.lancashire.gov.uk/ieListDocuments.aspx?CId=122&MId=15450